Navigating Context Switching in Software Development

In this episode of Building Better Developers with AI, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche tackle a challenge that many modern developers face: navigating multiple software methodologies. With insights shaped by both real-world experience and AI-generated suggestions, the discussion reveals how developers can stay effective when juggling Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, and hybrid workflows.

Understanding Common Software Methodologies

The episode begins with an overview of today’s most widely used software methodologies: Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, Kanban, DevOps, and SAFe. Rob and Michael highlight that developers often switch between these within the same organization or even across concurrent projects, depending on client requirements, legacy constraints, or team structure.

The result? A dynamic but complex work environment that demands both technical and mental agility.

The Challenge of Switching Software Methodologies

The core challenge is staying productive while adapting to different software methodologies across teams and projects.

Developers face more than just a change in process—they often deal with different toolsets, coding standards, sprint cadences, and collaboration models. This constant context switching can drain mental resources.

“It’s like being bilingual,” Michael explains. “If you’re not fluent in a method, switching is exhausting.”

Even development tools play a role. Some developers separate projects by using different IDEs to help them mentally shift gears between methodologies.

Clarifying ‘Done’ in Software Methodologies

Rob and Michael explore a common point of contention: the definition of “done.” In Agile, it often means feature-ready for review or feedback. In Waterfall, it usually means final and locked.

“You’ll start a war in a meeting just asking what ‘done’ means,” Rob quips.

Michael uses a cooking analogy to explain the importance of clear expectations: requirements are the recipe, code is the ingredients, and the finished product must match what was promised. Without agreement on what “done” means for each software methodology, delivery and testing become chaotic.

Adapting to Different Software Methodologies

To truly thrive, developers must move from a methodology purist to an adaptive mindset, focusing on the value being delivered rather than the rigidity of a particular framework.

“Don’t serve the methodology. Serve the customer,” Rob emphasizes.

Michael reminds us to avoid getting lost in small details, like UI color tweaks, when more critical features remain incomplete. Staying aligned with the end goal ensures that effort translates into real progress, regardless of methodology.

Documenting Within Software Methodologies

In teams that use multiple software methodologies, documentation often becomes fragmented or overly complex. Rob and Michael both stress that great developers learn to write “just enough” documentation—and keep it in one place.

Michael offers a best practice: let the codebase be the source of truth. Embedding JavaDocs, comments, or changelogs within the code ensures that updates stay consistent with the actual implementation. It reduces dependency on separate, often outdated documentation tools.

“If your code and documentation don’t match, one of them is lying,” Michael warns.

Key Takeaways on Software Methodologies

• Understand core methodologies — Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, and hybrids
• Support healthy context switching — Use tools and routines that help you adapt
• Align on ‘done’ — Define it clearly with your team
• Focus on outcomes — Avoid getting stuck in rigid process rules
• Document just enough — And keep it close to your code

Be Adaptable, Stay Focused

To succeed across software methodologies, developers must be flexible, clear, and focused on delivering value.

Rather than being loyal to a single framework, the best developers understand the principles behind them all. They communicate effectively, manage context switches efficiently, and utilize smart documentation to keep projects aligned. When you serve the goal—not just the process—you become a truly adaptive developer.

Stay Connected: Join the Developreneur Community

We invite you to join our community and share your coding journey with us. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting, there’s always room to learn and grow together. Contact us at info@develpreneur.com with your questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes. Together, let’s continue exploring the exciting world of software development.

Additional Resources

• Learn From CoWorkers: Interview with Douglas Squirrel
• Rock Bottom Can Be a Starting Line
• Invest In Your Team – They Will Want To Stay
• Building Better Developers With AI – With Bonus Content